New Zealand

New Zealand Small Ship Cruises & Luxury Expeditions. Discover the Land of the Long White Cloud with Wild Earth Travel.

People Love to Throw Around the Phrase ‘Natural Beauty’. Then They Go to New Zealand...

The ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ – it’s a classic Kiwi understatement if there ever was one. Most travellers are drawn here for the epic nature experiences – the open spaces, the dusted peaks, the lakes that pop with blue and make a mockery of Instagram filters... All this is just the tip of the glacier. From the stone-faced Maori carvings to the busy backstreets of Wellington and Dunedin, this country is bursting with vitality. 

Akaroa. On the southern side of Banks Peninsula lays a harbour, created when the crater wall of an extinct volcano collapsed into the sea. In that harbour nestles the fishing village of Akaroa (Māori for "long harbour"). This little port is a favourite day trip for Christchurch residents on a Sunday drive or the weekends.

Napier. Sip the fine wines of legendary producers, visit crowds of birdlife at Cape Kidnappers or wander the stylish streets of the world’s art deco capital - Napier. Located on the huge arc of Hawke’s Bay, Napier offers a beautiful Mediterranean style climate and a breezy cafe culture. This green, outdoor town borders the rich blue Pacific and invites you to stroll along a tree-lined two-mile seafront.

Fiordland National Park. New Zealand's fiords along with Fiordland National Park are some of New Zealand's premier attractions. Wild and remote, the region is a combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rain forest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Fiordland's unexplored wilderness is also the habitat of rare birds. Fiordland has achieved World Heritage Status and of the fourteen fiords in the National Park, Milford Sound is the most famous and accessible. 

Milford Sound. Milford Sound is by far the best known of all of the fiords and the only one that can be accessed by road. Visitors to Milford Sound will not be disappointed - it is truly spectacular. The scenery of the fiord has remained unchanged throughout the ages. 

Doubtful Sound. Doubtful Sound is a masterpiece of nature. It fills its visitors with an atmosphere of powerful solitude and serenity which contrast with Milford Sound. The only way to reach it is by boat, crossing Lake Manapouri. 'The Sound of Silence' is rich in flora and fauna, New Zealand Fur Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins can be seen on many of the small islets at the entrance of the fiord. 

Auckland. Mixing sleepy nature relaxation with all the delights of a modern and multicultural city, Auckland sits on the clear blue-green waters of New Zealand’s north island. There is so much to see and do in the largest city o the country! See the world's largest collection of Māori taonga. Rediscover a lost island of Rotoroa. Walk across the country in 5 hours. Visit Waiheke Island 'the island of wine'. SkyWalk and SkyJump at the Auckland Sky Tower.

Stewart Island. Within touching distance of the South Island's southern tip lays the third-largest island of New Zealand. Taking its name from the Māori word 'Rakiura' which means ‘land of the glowing skies’ this is an island sanctuary of radiant beauty. Stewart Island offers a special experience - a glimpse into a simpler, slower lifestyle, in rhythm with the sea and the tides, attuned to the natural world of bush and beach. Come and enjoy the land, sea and night-scapes, view the wildlife, walk, boat, fish, dive, kayak, hunt or just relax. Stewart Island offers an experience that will draw you back again and again.

Wellington. Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula, Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact, well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes, New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious, easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific, there are shows to see, art installations to enjoy, and rich flavours to savour here. 

The Chatham Islands. The Chatham Islands are New Zealand’s easternmost outpost and the first place in the world to welcome the new day. Experience stunning scenery, cultural treasures, intriguing history and relaxed lifestyles. Enjoy seafood bounties, a wide range of outdoors activities and of course, that well-known warm and friendly welcome that the locals extend to the visitors. These magical islands sit astride the legendary Roaring Forties and are surrounded by the pristine and unspoiled waters of the Southern Pacific Ocean. The natural beauty and the unique energy of these islands are the perfect settings for an adventure full of laughter, discovery and relaxation.

If you’re after a small ship or expedition cruise to New Zealand Wild Earth Travel can help you find a trip of a lifetime. We are ready to guide you through our range of different options with impartial advice so you can experience the very best of this unique destination. Our team are all passionate expedition & small cruise ship travellers and our knowledge and stories come from our own experiences.